On May 10, 2025, Rowan University presented its highest alumni distinction, the Most Distinguished Alumnus Award, to Chris DeMayo, Chief Operating Officer, partner and board member at Withum.
This award recognizes his exceptional professional achievements and dedicated service to the institution. The honor was presented during Rowan University’s main commencement ceremony, celebrating Chris’s significant professional accomplishments and valuable contributions to the University and society.
Alumni, faculty, students, parents, and supporters gathered at Coach Richard Wackar Stadium in Glassboro, NJ, to applaud Chris’s outstanding achievements in servant leadership within the accounting profession and his devotion to Rowan University. Nicholas Peppas was also honored that evening with an Honorary Doctor of Entrepreneurship award.
A member of the class of 2002, Chris returned to Rowan University to earn his MBA in 2004 and has maintained strong ties to the University post-graduation. His commitment to Rowan is evident. In 2022, he established the Christopher M. DeMayo Endowed Scholarship in Accounting within the William G. Rohrer College of Business, demonstrating his passion for creating opportunities for future generations of students.
Chris’s drive to offer opportunities for others extends beyond his role as a board member for the nonprofit One Simple Wish. During his time at Rowan, he served as a graduate assistant in Residential Learning and University Housing and created and led the University’s Head of Greek Life position for two years. Chris has also returned as a volunteer to speak to business students and mentor aspiring accountants and business leaders.
I am deeply humbled to receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Rowan University. Rowan provided me with a strong foundation and fostered a spirit of inquiry and leadership that has guided my career. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the University gave me, and I am passionate about giving back to help future students achieve their dreams.
Chris DeMayo, Chief Operating Officer, Partner and Practice Leader, Technology and Emerging Growth Services
A licensed certified public accountant, Chris was promoted to partner at Withum in 2013, just nine years after graduating from Rowan. He has led the Firm’s Technology and Emerging Growth practice, transforming it from a small regional presence into a nationally recognized top 10 entity. Known for his expertise in the tech community, DeMayo collaborates with some of America’s most notable startup and emerging growth companies.
His numerous accolades include being named to New Jersey Business Magazine’s 2024 INNOVATE100 list, recognized as a “40 Under 40” winner by CPA Practice Advisor and receiving the 2018 Apex Award of Excellence for Electronic Media-Education and Training. Within Withum, he has received multiple “Strength Awards” across Client Service, Entrepreneurship, Marketing and Firm Impact, recognizing him as a top achiever. In 2023, he was honored as an honorary member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Honors Society for his contributions to business and the Rowan community.
Withum extends its sincerest congratulations to Chris DeMayo on this significant and well-deserved honor, celebrating his remarkable achievements and his enduring connection to Rowan University.